interview:Kadeem tyrell
South London R&B artist Kadeem Tyrell has long been admired for his delivery and modern soul style, but with his new 8-track EP KT.FM, he broadcasts a fresh, bolder frequency. Written between lockdowns, life shifts, and late-night sessions in L.A., this is Kadeem’s most introspective and confident project yet, one that blends vulnerability, groove, and ambition. Released in 2025, KT.FM captures the full spectrum of Kadeem’s evolution.
From his standout BBC Introducing showcase at SXSW to collaborations with the likes of Mack Keane and ESTA, KT.FM captures the full spectrum of Kadeem’s evolution. We sat down to talk about self-discovery, the meaning behind KT.FM, and what it means to build a legacy as an independent R&B artist in 2025.
Let’s start with the name. What does KT.FM stand for?
Kadeem: KT.FM stands for “Kadeem Tyrell FM” — like a personal broadcast. I wanted the project to feel like you’re tuning into me, flicking between the different frequencies of who I am. FM is “frequency modulation,” and that metaphor really guided the creative direction. There are different moods and energies across the tracks — playful, intimate, reflective — but it’s all me.
The artwork with the headphones — that’s part of that idea too, right?
Kadeem: Exactly. I wanted the visual to be close-up and personal. Just you and the headphones, like you're in your own world with the music. I actually got inspired by a Natalie Portman photo with headphones — it felt focused, cinematic. So I bought these proper, expensive headphones just to make the vision make sense. It’s all intentional. The whole EP is about tuning into self.
You took a break before making this project. What brought you back to recording?
Kadeem: After my last mixtape in 2022, I slowed down a bit — needed space to live life. But 2023 changed that. I went to Texas for SXSW, performed on the BBC Introducing stage, and that was a full-circle moment. I remember watching artists perform on YouTube and thinking, “That’ll be me one day.” After that, I flew to L.A. for five weeks and finished most of the EP. That whole trip gave me new energy.
“One Time” was the lead single. What made you choose that to introduce the project?
Kadeem: It’s fun, bouncy, has that nostalgic 90s R&B feel. It actually came out of my first session with Stevie after I got back from L.A. At first, I didn’t even think it would be on the project — it was just me having fun. But the vibe felt right. It’s playful and light, but still soulful.
In contrast, “Handle That” feels very grown, sensual, even poetic. Tell us about that one.
Kadeem: That’s my favorite. Produced by Bennet. I was actually late to that session — even went to the wrong studio! But on the train, Bennet played this melody and I was hooked. It has that Victoria Monét, Silk Sonic feel — sexy, but subtle. I wanted to talk about intimacy in a metaphorical way, so the lyrics compare someone to weed: calming, addictive, smooth. It’s definitely the most mature track on the EP.
You’ve said “Handle That” is your favorite on the EP. Why?
Kadeem: That track is a statement. It’s sensual, soulful, but clever in its writing. The concept plays with metaphors — desire, intimacy, escape — but it’s wrapped in live horns and warm textures. It’s what I call “grown R&B.”
How would you describe the sound of KT.FM?
Kadeem: It's rooted in 90s R&B — that Donell Jones, Joe, Aaliyah era — but it’s also forward-thinking. I worked with producers like Stephen Collins, Mike Irish, and Subculture. There’s a soulful base, but it’s modern. KT.FM explores desire, growth, and identity, all with smooth melodies and depth. It’s confident but still intimate.
You also worked with Mack Keane and ESTA. How did that collab come about?
Kadeem: It was honestly a manifestation. Before I flew to L.A., I told myself, “I’m going to work with Mack and ESTA.” Some people told me it wouldn’t happen — too expensive, not realistic. But my manager made it happen literally the day before I left. That whole day felt surreal. I’d been vibing to their beats for years. We made “Where U R” in one session, and it became one of the standout moments of the project.
You said KT.FM was about “tuning in.” What were you tuning out?
Kadeem: Noise. Expectations. The industry. Social media. Even my own doubts. I had to quiet all that and ask, “What do I want to say? What does this sound like when it’s just for me?” That’s what KT.FM gave me — space to listen inward.
Do you still work independently?
Kadeem: Yup. I still work as a postman during the day. I fund everything myself — music videos, trips, studio time. That’s why I’m so intentional. I’m building a brand, not just a body of work. It has to represent me completely. That independence gives me full control, but it also keeps me grounded. I’m in this for the long haul.
What’s the long-term vision?
Kadeem: I want KT.FM to be more than an EP. I see it becoming a brand — a platform to build a world around my sound. The goal is bigger stages, bigger collaborations, and eventually touring not just in the UK but across the world. When I return to L.A., I don’t want to be chasing sessions — I want the sessions chasing me.
Final message for your listeners?
Kadeem: Just keep tuning in. Whether it’s love, healing, or self-doubt — I’m putting all of that into the music. KT.FM is only the beginning. I want this to grow into something bigger than me — something that gives other people the courage to show up as their full selves too.